2008 has started with a number of changes in the committee personnel, with Claire Andrews, Kami Marshall and myself joining forces with the remaining 7 members.

I would like to take this opportunity on behalf of the committee and association members to thank Nick Elmore who has done a fantastic job as chairman over the last 3 years, and also Sue Turner and Matt Robins who have retired as Treasurer and membership secretary respectively.

I feel that 2008 is going to be an exciting sailing year for the class, with a 3 day National championships at Stokes Bay at the end of May, and the Reg White 3 day regatta at Brightlingsea at the end of September. Our aim this year is to give the class quality events, rather than quantity, so come on, let’s all try to support what’s been organised and show that we really are still a major catamaran fleet in the UK. Remember, the more you sail against good quality opposition, the more you improve your own game!

To get an idea of numbers for the nationals, you can pre enter through the Forum, but if you are unable to access that, please contact Ron Ireland, who will let you know what to do.

The Wildthing magazine is now being released every 2 months which gives information, news, technical and training tips and club news to all current 5.9 members. If you want to receive a copy of this informative magazine, you need to be a member of the association, on line forms should be on the website very soon. Likewise, if any of your club mates would like to get in on the act, the same applies. This editorial can only thrive on content, so please send Ron any photos, news, gossip and stories which he will try to include.

I look forward to seeing everyone on the circuit for excellent racing, good camaraderie and of course the Hurricane beer afterwards!

Yours in sailing

Neil Connelly
Chairman

Full details for the Nationals are now available here.